Srikkanth Predicts Tough Time for Sam Curran Against India

Former Team India captain Kris Srikkanth believes England all-rounder Sam Curran could struggle against Indian batters in the highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on March 5th. Srikkanth suggests that if Curran is given the ball, India’s dynamic top-order batsmen are likely to aggressively target him.

Curran’s Mixed Performance in the Tournament

Sam Curran’s performance for England throughout the World Cup has been inconsistent. He has secured six wickets in seven matches, averaging over 25 with an economy rate of 8.60. While he delivered crucial spells at the death against Nepal and Italy during the group stage, contributing to England’s victories, his overall impact has been limited.

Srikkanth’s Strong Views on Curran’s Bowling

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth expressed strong opinions regarding Curran’s bowling form. He stated that Curran hasn’t been particularly effective with the ball during the tournament. He specifically mentioned that players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson could launch an immediate attack on the left-arm pacer.

“Sam Curran is playing just as a batter. Except for the Nepal match, his bowling is terrible. If Curran bowls, the Indian batters will smash him to Church Gate and Marine Drive,” Srikkanth boldly stated. “If they open with Sam Curran, Abhishek Sharma, and Sanju Samson will smash him straight to the Church Gate station. One ball will head to the Marine Drive,” he added, painting a vivid picture of potential dominance by the Indian batsmen.

Concerns Over England’s Batting Depth

Srikkanth also voiced concerns about the depth and consistency of England’s batting lineup. He noted that only a few English batsmen, notably Harry Brook and Will Jacks, have demonstrated consistent form throughout the tournament. He highlighted Varun Chakaravarthy’s past success against England in T20 Internationals, suggesting he could be a key weapon for India.

“England’s lineup relies heavily on Salt and Buttler. Though Brook is good, someone like Bethell is a guaranteed wicket for India. He’ll play across the line to a Varun Chakaravarthy and sky one to get out. India are firm favorites, probably 70-30 to India. They are a far superior side to England,” Srikkanth explained. “Only Harry Brook and Will Jacks have been consistently playing well. England’s batting has a massive issue. The match will be decided in the first six overs of both team’s batting. India-New Zealand final is prewritten,” he concluded.

India’s Path to the Semifinal

India secured their spot in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals by finishing second in Super 8 Group 1. After a 76-run loss to South Africa in Ahmedabad, they rebounded with a strong 72-run win over Zimbabwe in Chennai, followed by a five-wicket victory against the West Indies. Sanju Samson played a pivotal role in the win against the West Indies, scoring an impressive unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls, including 12 fours and four sixes.

India will also be hoping for improved form from opener Abhishek Sharma in the crucial semifinal clash against England. While Harry Brook and Will Jacks have been consistent performers for England with 228 and 191 runs respectively, their openers, Jos Buttler and Phil Salt, have struggled to find their rhythm.

Varun Chakaravarthy boasts an impressive record against England, having taken 14 wickets in five matches at an average of under 10 and an economy rate of 7.66. He has continued his strong form in the ongoing tournament, claiming 12 wickets at an average of 15.33 with the same economy rate.

Further Reading: Official T20 World Cup Website